Murder-suicide suspected in 2 Bluffton deaths

BLUFFTON, Ohio - Bluffton police are investigating as a murder-suicide the deaths of a husband and wife, both 77, who were found in their home with gunshot wounds to their heads.

Ronald and Pauline Kirtland were found dead, each on a bed in separate bedrooms, by their son Gary, who stopped by their home at 163 Thurman St. in Bluffton's north end about 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, authorities said.

Both died from the gunshot wounds, Dr. Gary Beasley, Allen County coroner, said.

Mrs. Kirtland had two gunshot wounds; her husband had one, Dr. Beasley said.

Bluffton police found two firearms at the scene, according to Larry Van Horn, a coroner's investigator. There was no forced entry to the residence, said police, whose investigation is continuing.